The greatest strength of the VPS GRADS program, in comparison to other opportunities, is the level of diversity on offer. While other graduate positions offer rotational programs across the host organisation (perhaps consisting of 3 or 4 business areas), the GRADS is across the entire portfolio of the Victorian Government, as well as multiple areas close to my interests. The fact that I could be performing analytical work with Victoria Police in one rotation, and then in a project team developing policy with the Department of Premier and Cabinet in another rotation is very attractive. Beyond enjoying the sheer diversity on offer, the breadth of experience in the GRADS enables me to become a more rounded employee for the VPS.
While my work and academic experiences have prepared me for this role, much of my focus has been in one particular direction – counter-terrorism and security. Working in different government departments in varying roles would allow me to expand on my existing skillset, making me a stronger employee for future work in the VPS. The structured nature of the learning and development program within the GRADS is also an advantage in this regard, as it ensures my professional development will be in line with the VPS’ needs and requirements. Working with the VPS is also …show more content…
Fundamentally, I was interested in exploring how cultural ideas of governance impacted the nature and conduct of counter-terrorism campaigns. My initial approach had been to look at a number of counter-terrorism campaigns and the role of “face” in influencing government responses. At the first milestone, the first draft, I was self-critical enough to realise there were academic holes in my arguments and analysis. The theory I had used was not robust enough for use in this context, and the number of case studies meant I was unable to really engage with source
While my work and academic experiences have prepared me for this role, much of my focus has been in one particular direction – counter-terrorism and security. Working in different government departments in varying roles would allow me to expand on my existing skillset, making me a stronger employee for future work in the VPS. The structured nature of the learning and development program within the GRADS is also an advantage in this regard, as it ensures my professional development will be in line with the VPS’ needs and requirements. Working with the VPS is also …show more content…
Fundamentally, I was interested in exploring how cultural ideas of governance impacted the nature and conduct of counter-terrorism campaigns. My initial approach had been to look at a number of counter-terrorism campaigns and the role of “face” in influencing government responses. At the first milestone, the first draft, I was self-critical enough to realise there were academic holes in my arguments and analysis. The theory I had used was not robust enough for use in this context, and the number of case studies meant I was unable to really engage with source